Riverina targets foxes

As preparations for the upcoming fox baiting season commence, rangers from the Riverina Livestock Health and Pest Authority are reminding landholders to ensure they have the relevant chemical accreditation to obtain and use 1080 fox baits on their property.

Peter O’Shannassy, Riverina LHPA senior ranger, said the LHPAs are the only suppliers of 1080 fox baits in NSW and are working to ensure their safe use and minimise the risk to non-target animals.

"To be issued with 1080 baits a person needs to hold a qualification to use 1080," he said.

"The LHPA will continue to assist landholders who do not hold AQF accreditation by offering a new short course developed by the LHPAs and approved by the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW to enable landholders to legally use 1080 and Pindone.

"Any landholder who wants to control pest animals such as foxes and rabbits using 1080 or Pindone and does not have a current AQF3 certificate should attend the course.

"The course only takes a few hours to complete, and gives landholders a clear understanding of 1080 and Pindone use and their legal obligations."

Mr O’Shannassy says the most effective way to control fox populations and reduce the risk to livestock is with targeted group programs, implemented at least twice a year.

Autumn and spring are considered the most effective seasons in which to carry out control programs," said Mr O’Shannassy.

"This has been confirmed in a recently published study conducted by Industry & Investment NSW, with input from LHPAs. The study also found that farmers who participated in co-ordinated fox baiting programs with their neighbours can increase lamb survival rates by up to 20 per cent.

"Our rangers can provide advice to landholders on control plans, coordinating group programs, bait placement and the most effective bait types for different conditions."

The course will cost $44 for non ratepayers and $11 to Riverina LHPA ratepayers. Those completing the course will be issued a certification card and remain accredited to use 1080 and Pindone for five years.

Please contact your local office of the Riverina LHPA or your local ranger to express an interest in attending a course or get involved in a group baiting program.

Media contact: Kylie Dunn 6391 3720 / 0428 465 378